Dharmendra Summoned In Cheating Case Involving Garam Dharam Dhaba Franchise Investment

The Delhi-based Patiala House Court has issued a summons to Bollywood veteran Dharmendra, along with two other individuals, in connection a fraud case tied to the Garam Dharam Dhaba franchise. The case was brought forward by a local businessman, Sushil Kumar, who claims he was deceived into investing in the franchise. Judicial Magistrate Yashdeep Chahal called for their appearance, highlighting evidence that suggests the trio might have conspired to commit the act of cheating.

Sushil Kumar's allegations stem from an agreement made in April 2018, when he was approached by associates of Dharmendra with an offer to invest in a new outlet of Garam Dharam Dhaba in Uttar Pradesh. He was enticed with the promise of a 7% profit on an investment of Rs 41 lakh, alongside full support, leveraging the success of existing outlets. However, despite advancing Rs 17.70 lakh and procuring land in Amroha, UP, for the franchise, the commitments were reportedly not honored. Kumar later faced threats and suffered a financial setback, leading him to demand a refund instead of proceeding with the franchise setup.

In the judicial proceedings, Magistrate Chahal elaborated that the preliminary evidence sufficiently shows the accused parties might have induced the complainant under a collective intention, thereby meeting the criteria for the offence of cheating. The court's directive, issued on December 5, calls for Dharmendra, whose real name is Dharam Singh Deol, and the two other accused to answer charges of conspiracy under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, including those that pertain to cheating and criminal intimidation.

"The evidence on record prima facie indicates that the accused persons induced the complainant in furtherance of their common intent and the ingredients of offence of cheating are duly disclosed," the judge stated, reflecting on the gravity of the accusations. This was further substantiated by documents related to the Garam Dharam Dhaba deal, including a letter of intent adorned with the franchise's logo, indicating a clear transaction that implicated Dharmendra and his co-accused in the matter.

Scheduled for February 20, 2025, the forthcoming hearing aims to delve deeper into the allegations. The court emphasized that at this stage of the proceedings, a detailed examination of the case's merits isn't mandatory, but a base-level case must be established to proceed. This development comes in the wake of Dharmendra celebrating his 89th birthday, casting a shadow over the festivities with the looming legal challenges.

This case puts a spotlight on the complexities of franchise investments and the importance of due diligence, as highlighted by Sushil Kumar's unfortunate experience with the Garam Dharam Dhaba venture. As the legal process unfolds, it will offer further insights into the nuances of such business dealings and the consequential legal ramifications for all parties involved.